Cristiano Ronaldo has launched a new critique of Erik ten Hag, taking aim at the Manchester United manager over a recent interview.
At 39, Cristiano Ronaldo’s second stint at Manchester United ended contentiously following a falling-out with manager Erik ten Hag. Ronaldo left the club midway through the 2022/23 season after losing favor with Ten Hag and subsequently joined Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr during the January transfer window.
Ronaldo publicly expressed feeling “betrayed” by Manchester United, accusing the club of trying to force him out and stating he had “no respect” for Ten Hag. In a highly publicized interview with Piers Morgan, Ronaldo remarked, “I don’t have respect for him because he doesn’t show respect for me. If you don’t have respect for me, I’m never gonna have respect for you.”
Recently, Ronaldo renewed his criticism of Ten Hag, challenging the manager’s claim that Manchester United are “a long way” from winning the Premier League. Ronaldo argued that the team needs a complete rebuild and criticized Ten Hag for downplaying their chances of competing for top honors. “The coach shouldn’t say that they’re not going to fight for the league or the Champions League,” Ronaldo said in an interview with FIVE, adding that mental commitment is key even when the potential isn’t apparent.
Ten Hag, in an earlier interview with Dutch newspaper *AD Sportwereld*, admitted that the club is far from reclaiming its former glory but emphasized the long-term goal of returning Manchester United to Premier League and Champions League contention. However, just last month, Ten Hag expressed confidence that United could win major trophies under his leadership, stating, “We are confident, we have a good team, we have a good squad. We need to be more consistent and aim to win every competition we’re in, including the Premier League.”
Ronaldo’s latest remarks have reignited the grievances stemming from his difficult return to Old Trafford. He maintains that he performed “amazing” during his second spell at the club before his contract was terminated. As reported by Fabrizio Romano, Ronaldo highlighted his achievements, stating, “When I was back at United, I was very happy. I was one of the top scorers. I achieved incredible things with the club. In my first season at 37, I was the third-best scorer in the league. I scored in every group stage game and netted 17 or 18 goals in the league. I did amazing.”
Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure from Manchester United indeed ended on a tumultuous note, fueled by his conflict with Erik ten Hag. Ronaldo’s public criticisms of Ten Hag, especially regarding the team’s prospects and his perceived lack of respect, have kept the spotlight on their fraught relationship.
In his recent comments, Ronaldo has expressed discontent with Ten Hag’s assessment of Manchester United’s chances in the Premier League and Champions League, suggesting the team needs a thorough overhaul and criticizing Ten Hag’s cautious approach. Ronaldo’s reflections on his own contributions, including his impressive goal tally and performance during his second stint, underscore his belief that he made a significant impact despite the contentious end to his tenure.
Ten Hag’s perspective, on the other hand, focuses on the long-term vision for the club, acknowledging the current gap in competing for top honors while aiming to rebuild and eventually challenge for major trophies.
